NASW Foundation National Programs

NASW Social Work Pioneers^®

Lillian B. Coy (1914- )

Ms. Coy is best known for her pioneer work in rural New Mexico in providing leadership to counties and Native American communities on meeting basic needs. She worked in various capacities in the New Mexico Public Welfare Agency from 1956 to 1977, when she retired. Before coming to New Mexico, she worked in Child Welfare in Washington State, for twelve years. After her retirement, she volunteered as an advocate for the poor with the New Mexico Human Services Coalition.

Ms. Coy's education was an MSW 1964, University of Illinois. Ms. Coy, is living in Santa Fe, New Mexico.